2024 produced some incredible custom Jordan sneakers. We were amazed by the creativity and skill displayed within the sneaker community, whether it’s through pairs that have been meticulously hand-painted with fine details or rebuilt from the ground up. Even though we respect them all, we still have favourites. This is a list of our must-have custom Jordan sneakers for 2024.
Jordan 1 High OG “Cream & Sugar”
This year, Jordan Diab’s custom Jordan 1 High OG “Cream & Sugar” proved that simplicity is key. Yes, the clean white and brown colourway may be understated, but when combined with luxe materials, it’s a sneakerhead’s dream come true.
Air Jordan 3 “Sashiko”
The Air Jordan 3 “Sashiko” by Savoir-Faire Paris is the perfect pair to illustrate why Japanese materials and techniques have become a popular theme in custom sneaker designs. The unique look of the shoe, which sees the AJ3 silhouette covered in ripped textiles stitched up with decorative thread patterns, was inspired by Japanese techniques for strengthening and mending textiles. It’s also full of clever details that highlight the team’s incredible artistry.
Air Jordan 1 “Paris”
Polish shoemaker Margiello transformed the popular ‘Paris’ Nike SB Dunks from 2002 into an Air Jordan 1 sneaker this year. The design features the same neutral tan suede base and canvas overlays adorned with French painter Bernard Buffet’s vibrant artwork, and it honestly looks great on the AJ1 model.
Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High “White/Phantom”
Most sneakerheads will always say “yes” to a classic black and white colourway, but it’s even more difficult to resist the colour blocking and trimmings on these custom Off-White x Air Jordan 1 High “White/Phantom” sneakers by Maison Gabrielli. Consider them a tuxedo for your feet.
Air Jordan 1 High “Steamboat Willie”
Sneaker designs featuring the retro version of Mickey Mouse have become more commonplace since Steamboat Willie sailed into the public domain in January 2024. One of the most creative interpretations of the legendary character is this Air Jordan 1 High “Steamboat Willie” custom by Thomas Bulman. It features a black-and-white colour scheme, straps inspired by a film strip, and plenty of other references to the classic cartoon. It’s a nostalgic treat for early Disney fans.
Off-White x Air Jordan 4 “Give Me My Flowers” Pack
Air Jordan 4s covered in floral-patterned fabrics? Yes, please! The ‘Give Me My Flowers’ pack by Dooley of The Kicks Under The Stairs defies the notion that flower-covered sneakers are only for women. However, they do happen to come in a stunning pink colourway as well.
Air Jordan 3 “Purple Rain”
Travis Scott’s Jordan collaborations have inspired numerous designs, from Nike’s own releases and, yes, plenty of custom sneakers. This particular pair by Savoir-Faire Paris is inspired by the rapper’s Friends and Family AJ4 from 2019. The exclusive design, which features purple suede uppers, black accents, and red branding, has been translated onto the AJ3 silhouette. These kicks are so Prince-esque that we had to dub them the “Purple Rains”.
“Quiet Luxury” Air Jordan 1 Low Pack
Jordan Diab’s “Quiet Luxury” Air Jordan 1 Low Pack exudes understated elegance. The pack includes two colourways that inversely mirror each other yet maintain a brown suede base. However, we particularly appreciate the pair sporting Navy tumbled leather overlays and sail Swooshes.
Air Jordan 1 “Hulk”
Sean Fontenot is one sneaker artist who consistently creates beautiful handpainted custom sneakers. One of our favourite designs of the year has to be his incredible “Hulk” Air Jordan 1 (pun intended). They are intended to replicate the look of the superhero’s clothing ripping as he transforms into his massive green form. Plus, his eyes are painted onto the Swooshes in a fitting comic book style.
Air Jordan 1 “The Beatles”
Stella Stockbridge’s custom Air Jordan 1 “The Beatles” sneaker diorama may not be wearable, but it’s still wholly impressive. Her attention to detail in recreating iconic Beatles album covers and songs on each panel of the shoe (including 3D details) has us in awe.
Air Jordan 4 “Darth Vader”
We couldn’t think of a more chic villain to inspire a sneaker design than Darth Vader. The sleek black and red colour scheme of this AJ4 custom by Javornie Brathwaite is stylish all on its own, but the added details, like the miniature control panel on the heels and Vader’s helmet on the tongue, take it to another level. The force is strong with this design.
“Deadpool” Jordan 4 Sneakers
For obvious reasons, “Deadpool” sneaker designs have been a major trend in 2024. But even with the assortment of red and black sneakers inspired by the Merc with a Mouth, we’d go with Andrew Chiou’s subtle Air Jordan 4 “Deadpool”concept every time. His distressed details and muted colour scheme pay homage to the character while maintaining a sleek look suitable for everyday wear.
Air Jordan 1 “Kaws“
John Trottier reimagined the Air Jordan 1 silhouette with a grey suede upper, Mickey Mouse-like hands, and glow-in-the-dark outsoles inspired by the 2017 Kaws x Air Jordan 4 collaboration. Even though we still love the original pair, this aesthetic works equally well on the AJ1 silhouette. We propose an official redesign for the brand’s 40th anniversary next year.
Air Jordan 11 “Tron: Ares”
We might be biased, but this Air Jordan 11 “Tron: Ares” concept by Sneaker Fortress is our top choice to wear to the film’s premiere in 2025. Jordan Brand will release a new black and red AJ11 colourway next year, so we might just get to customise our own “Tron: Ares” look.
Air Jordan 11 “Wotherspoon”
For a Nike contest back in 2018, Sean Wotherspoon created a unique Air Max 1/97 with a vintage feel, and it is still highly sought-after today. To honour this iconic design, John Trottier created the Air Jordan 11 “Wotherspoon”concept, which features colourful corduroy materials layered throughout the sneaker. Would we want this version to exist in real life? The answer is an emphatic yes! Which custom Jordan sneakers are your favourites for 2024?
